In this process, Kansas City Black community leaders always apply pressure for Black candidates. Kansas City enters into yet another racially-charged debate wherein most local news outlets aren't allowed to talk about how decisions in local leadership REALLY develop. "The Kansas City police chief is chosen by the Board of Police Commissioners — not directly by the city. The Kansas City Chamber reported 350 people attended those listening sessions . KSHB: Community leaders say Kansas City, Missouri, residents deserve a voice in choosing next police chiefKCTV5: Chief Graves looks back on historic tenure as KCPD begins search for next leaderDeveloping .